HANSON, Ky. (7/6/14) — A Hanson man’s body was discovered during a fire on Roscoe Veazey Road, Hanson, Saturday, July 5. However, the death has been ruled a homicide.

According to a Hopkins County Sheriff’s report, Deputy Jonathon Barnes responded to a request for assistance from the Hanson Volunteer Fire Department at 3200 Roscoe Veazey Road.

After an autopsy was conducted by the State Medical Examiner’s Office, Madisonville, it was determined that the victim, James Simmons, 51, who lived at the residence died from a small caliber bullet wound at the base of his skull. Through the investigation, a suspect has been determined.

The Kentucky State Fire Marshall’s Office assisted in the investigation.

Preliminary findings have led authorities to believe the fire was suspicious in nature. The investigation is continuing.